Yemi Alade is Spotify Africa’s EQUAL Artist of the Month
Spotify has announced Nigerian Afropop star Yemi Alade as its EQUAL Africa artist for September 2024, celebrating her impact on the global music scene and her dedication to promoting African culture. Known as “Mama Africa,” Alade has become one of the most prominent female artists in Africa, earning international recognition for her powerful voice and dynamic performances.
Spotify’s EQUAL Africa program highlights female artists by showcasing them globally through curated playlists, specialized content and partnerships. Phiona Okumu, Spotify’s Head of Music for Sub-Saharan Africa, spoke about how Yemi Alade exemplifies the program’s mission: “Spotify is proud to be associated with Yemi Alade and will continue to use the platform to amplify women’s voices and showcase their incredible talents to a global audience.”
An international success story
With a career spanning more than a decade, Yemi Alade’s blend of highlife pop, R&B, and Afrobeats, along with influences from jazz and blues, has set her apart in the music industry. “My music is a fusion of African sounds, but the core of it is African rhythm,” Alade explained.
Yemi Alade’s collaborations with global superstars like Beyoncé, Angélique Kidjo, and Awilo Longomba have helped to elevate African music to new heights. She has toured the world, introducing audiences across continents to the richness of African rhythms and culture.
New album Rebel Queen
In July 2024, Yemi Alade released her highly anticipated sixth album, Rebel Queen, further cementing her place as a leading figure in African music. The album showcases her artistic evolution, blending her signature Afrobeats style with bold, innovative sounds.
The album features an impressive lineup of collaborations, including Beninois French legend Angélique Kidjo, Jamaican icon Ziggy Marley, Congolese rap star Innoss’B, and dancehall sensation Konshens.
A unanimous press
- “Yemi Alade takes the nebulous concept of Afropop from cheap copout to something far more powerful and interesting: a sonic indexing of widespread community.” – Pop Matters
- “Rebel Queen expands her repertoire with a world of adventurous pop sounds.” – Grammy.com
- “This album stands out not only for its musical diversity but also for its emotional depth, capturing a wide range of human experiences and emotions.” – Pulse
Spotify’s recognition of Yemi Alade through the EQUAL Africa program underscores her influence and success. As she continues to break boundaries, her music remains a source of pride for African culture and an inspiration for women in the music industry worldwide.
Learn more about Yemi Alade
Follow Yemi Alade
Site officiel / YouTube / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram